Exercise 1-B

Recognize Symbolic Death

 . 

The behaviors listed below reflect the symbolic death stage of initiation.

Read through the categories and behaviors and check off those that are relevant to you. Use this exercise to determine whether you are experiencing a symbolic death and, if so, where you are in this process. 

We suggest you print this exercise  1b

Denial—Escapism through addictive outlets

Alcohol Drugs Food Spending Work Sex Gambling Television Other

Avoidance

Associating with nonsupportive individuals Occupying yourself with your affairs Keeping too busy to self-reflect Evading confrontation Placating or making nice Isolating yourself from sources that can help you heal

Anger—Acting out

Temper tantrums Physical and/or verbal abuse Destruction of property Emotional blackmail Control and manipulation Threats and ultimatums Withdrawal

Vengeful behaviors

Gossip Cruelty Punishing words and deeds

Rationalization

Justifying your angry behavior Arrogance, condescension, and self-righteousness Shaming and blaming others Bargaining Suspicion and snooping

Victim attitudes

Shaming and blaming yourself Pitying yourself Believing yourself to be inferior or unworthy Believing yourself to be a failure

Depression

Crying jags Oversleeping Low energy Lack of appetite or eating too much Lack of motivation Feeling helpless and hopeless

Rest assured, this is a confidential exercise, meant for you alone. Your responses cannot be sent anywhere or saved in any medium.

Go on to the next exercise

The Book | Dr. Beth  | Services | Calendar
Q and A | Healing Links | Media Kit